Jermaine O'Neal was scratched from the Indiana Pacers lineup before a 99-92 victory over the Utah Jazz on Thursday night, the second straight preseason game he has missed because of a bruise to his right thigh.

O'Neal, who was celebrating his 27th birthday, played in only 44 games last season becauese of injuries to his shoulder and foot and a 15-game suspension by the NBA for his part in the brawl with Detroit fans last November.

He bruised his thigh during practice last week, although the injury is not considered serious.

"If it were the regular season, he'd probably play," Pacers spokesman David Benner said.

Indiana also did not play Jeff Foster, out with a sore left Achilles tendon; David Harrison, with an abdominal strain; and Fred Jones, with a hyperextended right knee.

Via ESPN

Indiana Pacers

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